Combine 1/3 cup water and 1 cup brown sugar (1 part water to 3 parts brown sugar) in a small saucepan.

Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved, about 7-10 minutes. Do not boil.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Prepare a 9 X 13-inch baking dish by generously spraying it with cooking spray.

Sift flour with salt into a large bowl and add oatmeal and flaxseed meal.

Using tips of fingers, rub butter into dry ingredients until well blended.

Mix in all remaining ingredients. Combine thoroughly.

Place mixture into prepared baking dish and using a rubber spatula, press firmly into pan.

Bake for 30 minutes until pale brown.

Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely.

Cut into bars.